The 1997 British & Irish Lions went to South Africa as huge underdogs against the reigning world champions.

But Sir Ian McGeechan’s charges produced an historic series victory that went straight into Lions folklore.

And the first Test will forever be remembered for Matt Dawson's daring dummy that led to the pivotal try late on in Durban to set up a dramatic victory.

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THE TEAM

Captained by Martin Johnson, McGeechan’s squad also included an uncapped Will Greenwood – the last true bolter to tour with the Lions.

Along with forwards coach Jim Telfer, McGeechan set a lot of store in form on the Tour and few could have predicted that props Paul Wallace and Tom Smith would force their way into the Test team.

Keith Wood at hooker was more expected but they sprung another surprise in Jeremy Davidson at lock alongside Johnson.

The back row was an all English affair with Richard Hill and Lawrence Dallaglio either side of No 8 Tim Rodber.

Injury to Rob Howley had given Dawson the scrum-half jersey with Gregor Townsend at fly-half and Jeremy Guscott and Scott Gibbs in the centres.

The masterstroke in the back line was putting Neil Jenkins at full-back, usually a stand-off the Welshman’s metronomic goal-kick was key to the series win and the Lions could not leave him out.

On the wings for the first Test were Alan Tait and Ieuan Evans.

THE BUILD-UP

The Lions made an instant impression winning all four of their opening Tour games including a 64-14 thrashing of Mpumalanga.

A marker was laid down in their opening clash of the Tour as McGeechan put together one of his most famous speeches of all.